May 16, 2025 - 651 views
Public Health Wales is advising visitors to farms to practice good hygiene after seven cases of cryptosporidium were linked to a Cowbridge farm.
The parasite can cause illness, especially after contact with young farm animals.
Visitors are reminded to avoid close contact with animals, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, supervise children closely and not eat or drink around animals.
Beverley Griggs, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health Wales said: “We are continuing to work with our partners to investigate this outbreak in Cowbridge and to reduce the risk of further transmission.
“Cryptosporidium infection often clears up without treatment but, it can be more serious for young children and people with weakened immune systems.
“We advise anyone who visited the farm and is experiencing symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach pain or nausea to contact their GP or call NHS 111 Wales.
“It is also important to be aware that this infection can be passed from person to person, if you begin to experience these symptoms after contact with someone has experienced them after visiting the farm, you should also contact your GP or NHS 111 Wales.
“Good hand hygiene at home, especially before eating or preparing food, is essential in helping to stop the spread.”
Pregnant women should always avoid newborn lambs during lambing season as it is considered a high risk.
